The article examines the peculiarities of evaluating educational achievements in physical education classes of students with a low level of motor activity. Ways to increase the level of motor activity in physical education classes in higher education institutions are considered. It was determined that students of higher education institutions in physical education classes with a low level of motor activity have a significantly lower success rate when performing physical exercises than students with a high and medium level of motor activity. Therefore, in order to improve educational achievements and increase motivation, we have developed criteria for evaluating students taking into account the level of their motor activity and physical fitness. In order to solve this problem, experts suggest using, in addition to planned training classes, additional classes under the guidance of teachers in sports sections, independent physical training, as well as promoting the development of independence and activity of students by participating in sports and health activities during extracurricular and vacation periods. However, in order to conduct independent classes, students need to have certain health control skills, the dynamics of the development of physical qualities and motor skills, as well as special knowledge for the correct and adequate assessment of the results of classes with subsequent correction of various characteristics of motor activity. Thus, there are contradictions between the increased need to intensify the mental work of students in the modern educational space and insufficient motor activity of young people in the process of learning in institutions of higher education.